Pregnancy is a time of significant change for a woman – physically and emotionally. It is vital to pay attention to your diet and what you eat during this time. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are certain foods that pregnant women should not eat. They can be harmful to you and your baby.
Here are four foods that you should avoid during pregnancy. We will provide tips on how to make sure that you get all the nutrients that you need during this time.
1) Undercooked Or Raw Meat
In the first trimester, your immune system is weaker, and you’re more likely to get food poisoning. To avoid this, make sure all meat is cooked thoroughly before eating.
Raw or undercooked seafood can also increase your risk of food poisoning. Avoid sushi, oysters, clams, and other raw or undercooked seafood during pregnancy.
2) Soft Cheeses
Cheese is a vital source of calcium, protein, and vitamins A and B-12. However, unpasteurized cheeses can harbor listeria, a type of bacteria that can be dangerous for pregnant women.
Listeriosis is a common infection caused by the listeria bacterium. It can lead to blood poisoning or meningitis and can be fatal. Pregnant women are 20 times more likely to get listeriosis than other healthy adults. The infection can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery.
3) Juice from Unpasteurized Fruits and Vegetables
If you wonder which fruits should be avoided during pregnancy, the answer is simple – any fruit that has not been pasteurized. These may include unpasteurized apple cider, grape juice, and pear juice.
These can contain harmful bacteria that can lead to food poisoning – especially during pregnancy when your immune system is weakened.
And, of course, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.
4) Raw Eggs
According to the American Pregnancy Association, raw eggs may contain salmonella bacteria, leading to food poisoning. It can be hazardous during pregnancy as it can cause dehydration and even death in severe cases. To avoid this, ensure that any eggs you eat are cooked thoroughly.
If you feel uneasy or have other symptoms, an ultrasound may be ordered to check the baby’s development.
Before you go for sonography, read this article on how much water should I drink before an ultrasound. It will guide you on how much water is enough and how it helps get a clear picture.
4) Processed Foods with Nitrates
Nitrates are processed foods like bacon, ham, hot dogs, and lunch meats.
When you’re pregnant, your body can’t process nitrates either, which means they build up in your system and can be harmful.
Studies have linked nitrate exposure to an increased risk of congenital disabilities and low birth weight. So it’s best to avoid these food items.
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